Resource 2: Ways to help pupils solve problems

Background information / subject knowledge for teacher

You can help your pupils become confident problem solvers by helping them to understand the importance of:

  • reading the problem carefully to find the important parts;
  • identifying the ‘deep’ features of a problem;
  • deciding what exactly is involved;
  • discussing and sharing different methods to solve the problem;
  • testing out ideas;
  • working alone and with others;
  • being prepared to start again if there is a mistake;
  • checking their work;
  • asking other pupils or you for help when needed.

You can also help your pupils become confident problem solvers by:

  • using contexts that are interesting to pupils when setting problems;
  • making the classroom environment supportive so they can share ideas without fear of being laughed at.

Resource 1: Why problem solving is important

Resource 3: Coins of Ghana